Show your appreciation for Mom with a delicious meal served in a sunny springtime garden. Whether you're planning a festive brunch or an afternoon tea, an elegant table will make the occasion even more special. These tips will help you create the perfect setting.

Linens
Set a celebratory mood with table linens in delicate springtime hues. To add visual and textural contrast, layer patterns over solid colors. Start with a crisp white tablecloth, then add a second cloth decorated with a colorful print. Florals and other botanical designs are perfect for the season, as are jaunty stripes. You can also create fresh looks by layering quilted runners and place mats over a tablecloth or arranging them on a bare wooden table.

Tableware
Enliven the setting by combining pastel dinnerware and serving pieces with classic white dishes. Tiered cake stands provide impressive presentation for desserts while making it easy for guests to help themselves. These versatile pieces are also ideal for serving teatime finger foods, such as scones, cookies and petite sandwiches. For morning meals, use the stands to hold mini quiches, frittatas and pastries. Clear glass pitchers and casual stemware offer handsome service for beverages—be it lemonade, iced tea or sparkling mimosas. Use additional glasses to hold flatware on a buffet table.

Finishing Touches
Candles and fresh flowers transform even the simplest occasion into a special one. Create an inviting atmosphere with flickering pillar candles set in tall glass vessels known as "hurricanes," which will prevent flames from extinguishing in a breeze. Set out vases filled with Mom's favorite flowers and let the celebration begin. Happy Mother’s Day!